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First Minister to visit carbon capture scheme: Why is public money going to wealthy polluters?

CARBON CAPTURE FUNDING + VISIT ‘MAKE A MOCKERY’ OF PLANNING PROCESS

First Minister John Swinney will visit the site of an innovative carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility in Aberdeenshire today where he will unveil new Scottish Government funding for the project.

The Acorn project, based in St Fergus, would take captured CO2 emissions from industrial processes across the country and store it safely under the North Sea.

The First Minister will meet representatives of the project and undertake a short tour of the site, before meeting staff and apprentices.

While in Aberdeenshire the First Minister will also meet business leaders and members of the Scottish seafood sector at a roundtable discussion in Peterhead.

Speaking ahead of his visit to the North East, the First Minister said: “Carbon capture and storage will play a huge role in Scotland’s net zero future.

“The Scottish Government is wholly committed to supporting the Acorn Project, which will take advantage of our access to vast CO2 storage potential and our opportunities to repurpose existing oil and gas infrastructure.

“Scotland’s energy transition presents one of the greatest economic and social opportunities of our time. This landmark project will help to support a just transition for oil and gas workers in the North East and across the country, by drawing upon their world-leading skills and expertise to create many good, green jobs in the coming years.

“The North East is also a powerhouse of Scotland’s word-class seafood processing sector, which contributes massively to our economy. According to recent figures the region alone is home to more than 3,379 full time equivalent jobs.

“The Scottish Government will continue to engage and work closely with the sector, and communities, to ensure that Scotland’s fishing industry, the wider seafood sector, and our marine environment can thrive sustainably.”

Climate campaigners have responded to the First Minister’s plans to visit to the Aberdeenshire CCS project saying it ‘makes a mockery’ of the planning process and questioning why there was more public funding being pledged for fossil fuel infrastructure.

The visit was announced as news broke of an official complaint into the Scottish Government’s handling of the planning application for the Peterhead gas power station with carbon capture.

The FM’s visit raises a number of concerns including that the explicit endorsement of this project may undermine any future assessment of a planning application to build the Acorn Project.

Environmentalists are also alarmed that public money is being handed to a pet project of fossil fuel companies. Shell, who are a key partner in Acorn, have made £50 BILLION profit in the past two years.

The Acorn Project is not yet in the planning system, and no application has been made yet it appears the FM is gambling our energy future on this technology working. The Scottish Government’s over-reliance on faltering Negative Emissions Technologies created a huge gap in its calculations around emissions reductions for the 2030 climate targets.

CCS has never delivered the capture rates that its proponents claim and there is a growing body of evidence that all it is doing is capturing public money and providing greenwash for continued fossil fuel expansion.

Friends of the Earth Scotland climate and energy campaigner Caroline Rance said:  “The Acorn carbon capture terminal does not exist and there hasn’t even been a planning application submitted to build it.

“However, with these fawning statements of support, the First Minister is in danger of making a mockery of the Scottish Government conducting a fair assessment of future planning applications.

“Vital public services are crying out for funding yet John Swinney has decided to give millions of pounds to a pet project of Shell, who made £50 billion profit in the last two years. The public must be starting to think the Scottish Government has been captured by the fossil fuel industry with hundreds of cosy meetings, huge handouts and the rolling back of positions on ending oil and gas.

“The Acorn Project is a pipe dream of polluters that will never live up to its hype.The purpose of CCS is to greenwash plans to keep burning oil and gas. Carbon capture has already had billions of pounds and decades of work to prove itself and it has failed on its promises everywhere it has been tried.

“Both the Scottish and UK Governments need to realise that public money would be far better invested in climate solutions that work today and can create decent green jobs such as home insulation, public transport and affordable renewable energy.” 

 Key questions for the First Minister:

• How can Ministers making future planning decisions be expected to judge the Acorn project on its merits when the First Minister is fawning over it and is funnelling public money towards it?

• Why is public money required to deliver this project when the oil companies who will benefit are making obscene profits?

• How will this project avoid the failures that have been seen in every other carbon capture project around the world?

BIDEN STANDS ASIDE

‘I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down‘

US President Joe Biden has announced that he will NOT stand for re-election.

His full statement, which he posted on X, reads:

“My Fellow Americans, over the past three-and-a-half years, we have made great progress as a nation.

“Today, America has the strongest economy in the world. We’ve made historic investments in rebuilding our nation, in lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and in expanding affordable health care to a record number of Americans.

“We’ve provided critically needed care to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances. Passed the first gun safety law in 30 years. Appointed the first African American woman to the Supreme Court. And passed the most significant climate legislation in the history of the world. America has never been better positioned to lead than we are today.

“I know none of this could have been done without you, the American people. Together, we overcame a once in a century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We’ve protected and preserved our democracy. And we’ve revitalised and strengthened our alliances around the world.

“It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.

“I will speak to the nation later this week in more detail about my decision.

“For now, let me express my deepest gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to see me re-elected.

“I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all this work. And let me express my heartfelt appreciation to the American people for the faith and trust you have placed in me.

“I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America.”

MR BIDEN added on Twitter:

My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.

My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made.

Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.

Vice-President Karmala Harris responded: “On behalf of the American people, I thank Joe Biden for his extraordinary leadership as President of the United States and for his decades of service to our country.

“I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination.”

In a statement, former US President Barack Obama said: “Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded — again — that he’s a patriot of the highest order.

“Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe’s remarkable career in public service. But what I came to admire even more was his character — his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts.

“Since taking office, President Biden has displayed that character again and again. He helped end the pandemic, created millions of jobs, lowered the cost of prescription drugs, passed the first major piece of gun safety legislation in 30 years, made the biggest investment to address climate change in history, and fought to ensure the rights of working people to organize for fair wages and benefits. Internationally, he restored America’s standing in the world, revitalized NATO, and mobilized the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine.

“More than that, President Biden pointed us away from the four years of chaos, falsehood, and division that had characterized Donald Trump’s administration. Through his policies and his example, Joe has reminded us of who we are at our best — a country committed to old-fashioned values like trust and honesty, kindness and hard work; a country that believes in democracy, rule of law, and accountability; a country that insists that everyone, no matter who they are, has a voice and deserves a chance at a better life.

“This outstanding track record gave President Biden every right to run for re-election and finish the job he started. Joe understands better than anyone the stakes in this election — how everything he has fought for throughout his life, and everything that the Democratic Party stands for, will be at risk if we allow Donald Trump back in the White House and give Republicans control of Congress.

“I also know Joe has never backed down from a fight. For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest in his life. But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America.

“It’s a testament to Joe Biden’s love of country — and a historic example of a genuine public servant once again putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own that future generations of leaders will do well to follow.

“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead. But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges.

“I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.

“For now, Michelle and I just want to express our love and gratitude to Joe and Jill for leading us so ably and courageously during these perilous times — and for their commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality that this country was founded on.“

REPUBLICAN Presidential candidate DONALD TRUMP reacted in customary style with a tirade on his Truth Social platform: “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve — and never was!”

“We will suffer greatly because of his presidency, but we will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Ever gracious, the former President later told NBC News: ‘Joe Biden is the worst president in the history of the United States by far.

“He should never have been there in the first place – he should have stayed in his basement.’

Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: “I respect President Biden’s decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency.

“I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people.”

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney said: “Joe Biden has served the people of the USA with devotion and total commitment.

“Now, in a typically selfless act, he steps aside to do what he thinks is right for his people. He came to Scotland for COP26 and made a powerful contribution. He has our best wishes for the future.

The Resident announces opening of it’s first Scottish Hotel

A very short walk from both Princes Street and Charlotte Square in the heart of the capital, The Resident Edinburgh combines the heartfelt hospitality The Resident is known for with a distinct Scottish warmth, evoking the brand’s connections with Scotland.

The Resident Edinburgh will be open to guests from 1^st September 2024, with rooms available to book now.

All 164 rooms and suites are designed for the home from home experience with mini-kitchens in every room and great natural light. Guest rooms have been specially crafted anticipating a slightly longer guest stay. Overall, the hotel has a cultured thoughtful elegance befitting the prime location and the world destination status of Scotland’s capital city.

From Double Rooms to Junior Suites averaging between 17 and 35-metres-squared, the stylish rooms offer a range of breathtaking views including Edinburgh’s skyline, Edinburgh Castle and exceptional views north over the Firth of Forth.

Amenities have been carefully selected and include everything from a personal Nespresso coffee machine with complimentary capsules, GHD hairdryers for the dressing and vanity area; Molton Brown bathroom products in the stylish en-suites; a dining/working area beside the full height windows.

The Resident has the latest easy to use in room tech and free Wi-Fi solutions for simple streaming from your own devices to minimum 50” UHD TVs. The beds are bespoke designed for The Resident with multi pocket springs and luxurious mattress toppers, Twin, King, or Super King.

Heartfelt hospitality is the ethos of The Resident Edinburgh’s guest experience. Each team member will be a “Resident Insider”, meaning they will be equipped with insider city knowledge so they can be tapped into for local advice, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in what Edinburgh has to offer.

The personal touch is what The Resident is renowned for, every evening hosting an hour of early drinks for guests. This social pause gives guests and the teams an opportunity to connect with each other and receive recommendations straight from the knowledgeable Resident Edinburgh team, all while enjoying drinks and snacks from local suppliers, including Stewart Brewery and Quirky Chocolate or Wines from Justerini & Brooks. Guest events will showcase local artisan producers and give deeper insight to Edinburgh’s culture and Arts scene.

The hotel will partner and support businesses around the city, providing guests with exclusive offers for local restaurants, bars and gyms to ensure they have access to the best venues in Edinburgh. The breakfast partner, The West End Brasserie, will offer a full breakfast offering for guests to go to. The other partners include; Cairngorm coffee, Dulse, Kyloe and attractions such as the Royal Yacht Britannia, The Real Mary King’s Close and Pickering’s at Summerhall.

The Resident Edinburgh is aware of the cultural and arts appeal of the City to its visitors. The library lounge will host a curated book collection of fascination and relevance to the city, as well as its culture.

The hotel owners, Mactaggart Family and Partners have commissioned Art for the public spaces from Emily Beamish of Dacre Fine Art, featuring local artists Katy Eccles, Hatti Pattisson and Poppy Cyster. The Resident will be the perfect spot to relax with friends for a quiet glass of wine, or a specially selected whisky.

The hotel has a variety of quiet niches to retreat for work or leisure. Whether a long day of exploring the city, or returning to the hotel after a day of work, the warmth of The Resident Edinburgh’s team will be there for you.

The Resident Edinburgh’s interior design takes inspiration from local surroundings and the designers have placed emphasis on sourcing items to fully capture the vibrant character of Edinburgh. Furnishings have been carefully handpicked and fabric elements in the rooms and lounge areas have been sourced from well-regarded Glasgow-based, Timorous Beasties.

The hotel’s interior colour palette draws subtly on national references; the pale blue of the Saltire flag, the soft hues of the Craigleith sandstone, the earthy tones of the countryside visible from the rooms and finally the smoky browns that allude to the city’s affectionate nickname of ‘Auld Reekie’.

David JM Orr, CEO of Resident Hotels Ltd, said: “The Resident Edinburgh marks a significant milestone for The Resident brand, many of us in the business and especially our ownership have cherished, deep Scottish roots and a great affinity for Edinburgh and its cultural affluence.

The Resident Edinburgh brings a new offering to the visitor for the City, a slightly longer stay with the guest and our teams at the centre. The Resident has an enviable track record at ensuring the visitor whether on business or leisure can experience a home from home, living like a local but with a very light touch.

The Resident teams’ advocacy of businesses, attractions, artisans and institutions within the city will be fulsome as our mission to showcase the entrepreneur chefs’ restaurants and bars throughout the city.

“The guest experience is at the centre of our operation, and we have carefully curated a hotel that is inspired by Edinburgh, Scotland and the people who live here. We are delighted to be able to offer a personal experience for any guest that enters The Resident Edinburgh and equip them with insider knowledge, so they can feel like a resident in Scotland’s vibrant capital.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming guests from September; the afterglow of the Festival will be a perfect time to visit a city that has proven increasingly to appeal throughout the year.”

Gillian Mylles, General Manager of The Resident Edinburgh, said: “I am so excited to be bringing The Resident experience to Edinburgh. The attention to detail in The Resident Edinburgh is impressive.

“Amenities and services have been diligently considered to offer an exceptional experience for guests in an idyllic setting. We will be welcoming guests from all around the world, each visiting the capital for a variety of different reasons, and we have made sure we can cater to any potential need.

“The Resident Edinburgh will be a comforting home away from home. Guests will be able to get involved in the Edinburgh community, learn insider tips from the very best and also have the chance to socialise with other guests. I’m looking forward to our doors opening in September and meeting Edinburgh’s current and new residents”.

The Resident Edinburgh has seen the redevelopment of a 1960’s building, repurposing the former 1963 HM Revenue and Customs office for a use for at least the next 60 years. An innovative glass recycling solution by Arup is a first in a hotel project in the UK; 10 tonnes of glass from the building’s façade were returned to glass manufacturer, NSG Pilkington, which resulted in savings of 12 tonnes of virgin raw materials and more than 5 tonnes of CO2 emissions were avoided during new glass manufacture.

The hotel will open from the 1^st September 2024, and reservations can be made directly on the hotel’s website. By becoming a member, guests can enjoy 15% off booking and other benefits. Sign up in one simple step by visiting: https://www.residenthotels.com/registration/.

The Resident Edinburgh joins five existing The Resident properties located in prime locations in London and Liverpool, with planning permission approved for The Resident Farringdon, London. The Resident Covent Garden and The Resident Liverpool have both been ranked as #1 in their respective cities on Tripadvisor, cementing the fact that the brand has guest experience at its heart and will be bringing this elevated offering to Scotland.

Stay updated with The Resident news on Instagram @resident.hotels and on Facebook @ResidentHotels.

Average prices start from £269 per room.

Police use drones to target antisocial behaviour in South Queensferry

Police Scotland Air Support Unit launched their drone in South Queensferry this week as part of an operation tackling antisocial vehicle use in the Hawes Pier area.

Community officers were joined by Cllr Lewis Younie and assisted by colleagues from our Roads Policing Team to raise awareness of the issue and engage with those involved.

Call for more fully accessible toilets

Over a quarter of a million people in the UK in need of such facilities
More than 2,400 Changing Places toilets currently available in the UK including 289 across Scotland
Changing Places Awareness Day highlights the need for more fully accessible toilets

Friday (19 July) was Changing Places Awareness Day – the annual event highlights the importance of fully-accessible toilets needed by more than a quarter of a million people in the UK.

Muscular Dystrophy UK and PAMIS, co-chairs for the Changing Places Consortium, are calling for more Changing Places toilets to be made available on the awareness day.

Muscular Dystrophy UK supports more than 110,000 children and adults in the UK living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions.

The charity campaigns for people’s rights, better understanding, accessibility, and access to treatments, funds ground breaking research and supports people to live well now.

PAMIS, promoting a more inclusive society, is the only charity in Scotland that solely supports children, young people and adults with profound learning and multiple disabilities (PMLD) and their families to lead healthy, valued and included lives doing the things they want to do within their community, offering a range of projects and programmes.

Together they campaign for Changing Places toilets to be installed in all big public spaces, so that people can access their community.

A Changing Places toilet is different to a standard accessible toilet. With extra space (12 sqm) to help accommodate larger wheelchairs and the presence of carers to assist and support the users. It has specialist equipment such as an adult size changing bench, ceiling track and hoist, peninsular toilet, and height adjustable sink.

People with profound and multiple learning disabilities, hidden or physical disabilities such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis, often need extra equipment and space to allow them to use the toilets safely and comfortably.

Without enough Changing Places toilets, people with hidden and physical disabilities face the option of not leaving their homes, limiting fluid intake on days out, or having to be changed on dirty toilet floors.

Currently, there are more than 2,400 Changing Places facilities that have been installed and the Changing Places Consortium works with a range of companies, providers venues and government departments.

Changing Places Awareness Day is not only an opportunity to call for more toilets but a day to mark the official launch of the campaign, started back in July 2006. Enabling a celebration of all the achievements to date and thank the dedicated campaigners, who fight for change.

A bathroom with toilets and sinksDescription automatically generated

Rob Burley, Director of Care, Campaign and Support at Muscular Dystrophy UK said: “For some of the people we support, standard accessible toilets can’t meet their needs, which is why we are proud to be the co-chair of the Changing Places Consortium.

“A person living with a muscle wasting or weakening condition might be in a large powered wheelchair and so may need extra space to manoeuvre around the toilet. They may also need assistance from a family member or a carer and require some of the specialist equipment that is provided in a Changing Places toilet, such as a ceiling hoist and height adjustable sink.

“We hear from a lot of people saying that without a Changing Places toilet they have had to risk their health and safety and that their dignity has been impacted by having to be changed on a toilet floor, rather than having access to hoists and adult changing benches.

“Currently there are over 2,400 registered Changing Places toilets but there is a need for more. We’re calling to have them in all appropriate venues. Legislation calls for them to be mandatory in new buildings over a certain capacity, but given the difference these facilities make, we encourage all venues to install a Changing Places toilet, regardless of size, as it will make a huge difference.”

Scottish charity PAMIS has been campaigning for more Changing Places toilets for over twenty years since the majority of the families the organisation supports cannot use accessible toilets and require the additional space and equipment provided by a Changing Places toilet.

Fiona Souter, Inclusive Communities Director explains: “People with profound learning and multiple disabilities are isolated in their own communities due to the lack of appropriate toilets and this is fundamentally a human rights issue where we frequently hear from families who cannot access healthcare, education or enjoy days out with family and friends because there are no Changing Places toilets nearby.

“While there have been major steps forwards in Scotland most notably around changes to building standards and planning legislation making it mandatory to include a Changing Places toilet in certain sized new public buildings there are still huge geographical gaps in provision.

“We want Scotland to be a truly accessible and inclusive country to visit as well as to live and that is why Changing Places Awareness Day is so important – the more people are aware of these life changing facilities the better.”

Kerry Thompson, from Milton Keynes, was diagnosed with a form of muscular dystrophy (FHL1) and regularly uses Changing Places toilets. She explains why they are so important to her day-to-day life: “Taking a simple trip out can be a military operation. I have a check list of things to take, especially if it’s more than a few hours.

“The biggest problem I face when going anywhere is using a disabled toilet. I find some are simply too small to fit me, my wheelchair in, and it can sometimes feel very claustrophobic, manoeuvring can also be tricky or near impossible.

“My only option is sometimes having to wait until I get home. However, I suffer with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), so holding it can prove really challenging.

“When I found out about the Changing Places campaign, I wanted to get involved and help spread the word on how important these facilities are to so many people, like me, and their families and carers. It makes such a huge difference.”

In a reflection of the importance of Changing Places toilets, and the campaign, Changing Places has recently been shortlisted for Third Sector’s Big Impact award, which celebrates a project that has had a substantial impact on national life.

Clarks freezes prices on much-loved school shoes

The trusted shoe brand also reduces prices of a third on its Back-to-School collection

As the cost of living continues to bite this summer, Clarks today announces that it’s keeping its market-leading school shoes at 2023 prices.

The brand is also reducing the price of 33% of its Back-to-School collection, so parents can rest assured that they will pay less, or the same, as last year – win win!

CLARKS HAVE IT COVERED

From a reassuring 3-month fit guarantee to money-saving bundles, Clarks have also got plenty of offers to make life a little easier for parents this back-to-school season.

MORE THAN A FIT. IT’S A GUARANTEE.

If kids’ shoes don’t fit three months from their in-store fitting, parents can exchange them for a new pair. It’s as simple as that.

BUY TOGETHER AND SAVE

Parents can buy those back to school essentials together this season and get some great savings. Like £10 off a pair of kids trainers when you buy a full price pair of school shoes. Less time shopping, more money in the pocket.

WHY BUY CLARKS SCHOOL SHOES?

QUALITY THAT LASTS…

Clarks promise unbeatable quality. Clarks School Shoes are made with premium materials and are packed with kid friendly features and benefits for long-lasting comfort. Prices start from £38.

LIGHT

All our school shoes are specifically designed to be lightweight, helping children’s feet and ankles move the way they’re meant to.

BREATHABLE

Kids’ feet sweat twice as much as adults’ feet. So, all our kids’ school shoes use leather uppers and mesh linings with an antimicrobial treatment – keeping them breathable all day long.

FLEXIBLE

Clarks school shoes support kids’ natural gait cycle, helping children walk freely and confiently.

TOUGH

As well as charging around the playground, more than half of kids walk or cycle to school. With robust materials and durable constructions, Clarks shoes withstand this wear.

CUSHIONED

Kids take 10-16,000 steps a day on average – so shoes need to be comfortable. Crafted with cushioned footbeds, our shoes reduce impact and add softness to each stride.

WE’VE DONE OUR HOMEWORK

With almost 200 years of children’s foot health expertise, parents trust Clarks to deliver perfectly fitting, science-backed pairs of shoes that empower kids to be their very best selves – all day, all term, all year.

WE KNOWS THE SCIENCE OF KIDS FEET

Clarks partner with podiatry experts at the University of Salford and have recently carried out one of the largest studies in children’s biomechanics. With over 1200 3D scans across 300 children. So customers can rest assured that Clarks school shoes help kids move comfortably and freely.

IN-STORE FITTINGS AND QUIET TIME

If shoe shopping is overwhelming for little ones, customers can visit Clarks stores at a time when there are fewer crowds, less noise and gentler lights. Pre-book an appointment or just walk-in, the option is yours…

MEASURED AT HOME

With a Clarks foot gauge, which can easily be ordered from www.clarks.com, it’s simple to get their shoe size spot on from the comfort of home.

BBC ALBA rides the wave of excitement ahead of Olympic surfing competition

As the world’s best surfers prepare to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games, keen surfer Ceitlin Lilidh presents a new BBC ALBA series on the world history of surfing.

From the super waves of Tahiti to the winter wave challenges of Thurso – and now, the Olympics – BBC ALBA journeys through the rich spirituality, sport and culture of surfing in Surfing: Marcachd an Tuinn/Riding the Wave.

Airing on Tuesday 23 July at 9pm, the two-part documentary is the latest series from producers MacTV, co-produced with French company Yami2 and directed by John Murdo MacAulay.

Producer Ann Morrison said: “It’s much more than a sport to the people of Tahiti where surfing was born, it is an expression of the culture – the culture of the people of the water, the Polynesians.

“While much of the rich culture and history of the Polynesian people was almost wiped out, thanks to guardians like Tom Pōhaku Stone, the traditions of dancing on wooden boards was passed on to future generations and to the rest of the world where it is now practiced by tens of millions of enthusiasts.”

From being an exotic distraction for Westerners vacationing in Hawaii in the early 20th century, to exploding on the west coast of America as part of the burgeoning California beach scene, it didn’t take long for surfing to reach the cold Scottish shores as a brave few donned their swimming gear and makeshift surfboards.

Margaret Cameron, MG ALBA director of content, added: “Surfing has taken the sporting world by storm – so much so that it has now earned its place at the Olympics.

“After making its debut appearance at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, it’s now a firm fixture in the Olympic schedule. We’re excited to share the history of surfing with audiences across the country before we keenly watch how its next chapter plays out at the Paris Olympic Games later this month.”

Join Ceitlin Lilidh for a whirlwind world history of surfing – covering everything from the spirituality, celebrity, fashion and fun of the sport, with Surfing: Marcachd an Tuinn/Riding the Wave premiering on BBC ALBA and iPlayer on Tuesday 23 July at 9pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles).

The second part will air on Tuesday 30 July. Watch live or on demand:

www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dn5

Sprint World Orienteering Championships shine in Edinburgh

THURSDAY saw the conclusion of the Sprint World Orienteering Championships (www.woc2024.org) which took place in Edinburgh.

The city welcomed over 3,000 fans across the week with start and finish venues at Princes Street, Heriot-Watt University and Saint John Street. Locals and orienteering fans alike came to cheer on the competitors, marking another successful world sporting event for Scotland.

Over 250 world class athletes from 45 countries competed in the event and the inaugural ‘WOC Tour’ participation race also proved a huge success, as 1200 people from across the orienteering and Scotland community signed up to take part in multiple events over the course of five days.

The GB team also saw success across the week with Megan Carter Davies competing in the Sprint Knockout final, she finished fifth narrowly missing out on the medals, while Grace Molloy also secured a 6^th place in the individual sprint on Friday afternoon.

Andy Mitchelmore, Event Director at WOC 2024, said: “We are absolutely delighted at the success of WOC 2024. I can’t thank everyone enough for making the last few days an unforgettable experience.

“To see so many people come out to watch Orienteering in this fantastic city has been overwhelming. Whether that has been just to watch the athletes, compete in our amazing WOC Tour races or to enjoy the atmosphere, everyone has played their part.

“We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our amazingly hard-working staff and all our volunteers who have worked tremendously hard and without whom the event would not have been successful.

“Also, to all our stakeholders and commercial partners who have played an integral role in bringing this event to life. In particular, Event Scotland, Edinburgh City Council, British Orienteering Federation, Scottish Orienteering Association and the Scottish Orienteering six-day event Company Ltd for their unwavering support.

“The hope is that we have now created a legacy for the sport’s future and helped put orienteering on the map in Scotland.”

Paul Bush OBE, Visit Scotland Director of Events, said: “Edinburgh has provided the perfect stage for the Sprint World Orienteering Championships 2024. Our capital city has certainly never seen anything like this before as athletes raced through our medieval tenements, narrow and intricate alleys and sweeping landscapes in search of World Championships glory.

“Scotland is one of the best places in the world to experience events and the successful delivery of the Sprint World Orienteering Championships reinforces our reputation for delivering innovative and world-class events.

“Thank you to the organisers, partners, volunteers and most importantly the athletes for making this a truly memorable event.”

Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron said: “It has been a delight to welcome, and to watch, the world’s best orienteers compete in elite sprint races across our city.

“Hosting the Sprint World Orienteering Championships has not only showcased Edinburgh to the world but also the wonderful, exciting, outdoor sport of orienteering – the mental and physical skills it involves, and the health and wellbeing benefits it offers participants of all ages and abilities.

“I hope Edinburgh residents, visitors and spectators alike will have been inspired to give orienteering a go. My warmest congratulations and gratitude go to all the competitors, medallists, and everyone involved in making WOC24 such a terrific success.”

The activity across the week has also seen Scotland embrace the family feel the event has brought to the city, with free activities on offer throughout the week, including orienteering mazes, fun ‘come and try’ races and all the action on live screens in major locations across the city.

The event has been hugely successful in attracting commercial partners across the city and beyond. Many of which provided the base for the event to be a success.

1500 sandwiches were provided by Scotmid Co-op, 2200 snack bars by Nairn’s, 4000 water bottles from Actiph Water and 1500 Sausage rolls were given to the event from PieSports.com. Eight kilt sets for ceremonies were also provided by Gordon Nicholson Kiltmakers, while SOS provided all the essential printing requirements for the event and Cullen Property also supported the event throughout.

To see all the results visit WOC 2024. WOC 2024 highlights can be found on www.eurovisionsport.com, the European Broadcasting Union (IBU)’s new free streaming platform and on the IOF YouTube channel.

‘Ministerial Code Broken’ in Scottish Government handling of proposed Peterhead fossil fuel power station

THE Scottish Government has been formally accused of 28 breaches of the ministerial code in connection with its handling of a planning application for a new fossil fuel power station at Peterhead, Aberdeenshire.

Friends of the Earth Scotland lodged the official complaint with civil servants on Friday (19th July) and said there was a “deeply concerning pattern of behaviour right across the Scottish Government”.

The breaches include ministers discussing the planning application with developers, ministers publicly supporting the project and the former First Minister Humza Yousaf appearing in a promotional video for power station developer SSE.

Energy companies SSE and Equinor submitted the planning application for a new gas-burning power station with carbon capture in February 2022 and it is still under consideration by the Scottish Government. Environmental groups have strongly criticised the plan because of the climate pollution it will create and the fact that it will lock households into higher electricity bills linked to fossil fuels for decades to come.

The ministerial code is a collection of standards that must be adhered to to ensure integrity, accountability and transparency. It sets out how ministers should act in the handling of planning applications and states that, to make sure the planning system is fair, ministers “must do nothing which might be seen as prejudicial to that process”, including by meeting developers to discuss a proposal but not meeting all interested parties.

Research including analysing the lobbying register and FOIs by Friends of the Earth Scotland has uncovered:

• Several incidents in which Scottish Government ministers were briefed by civil servants to welcome and offer their support for the controversial Peterhead gas-burning power station application in meetings with the developers SSE and Equinor, including one minister being briefed ahead of a meeting with Equinor to “offer your support in any challenges faced” by the company.

• Ministers undermining the planning process by publicly speaking in favour of the project, including then Cabinet Secretary for Energy Michael Matheson providing a supportive press quote about the fossil fuel plant for an SSE press release.

• Former First Minister Humza Yousaf breached the code with his visit to the existing Peterhead power station in July 2023. The First Minister wore an SSE branded jacket as he posed for press photos and appeared in an SSE promotional video praising the company’s “plans for the future”. The Scottish Government tweeted about the event and issued a press release.

• Repeatedly meeting with developers while refusing to meet objectors. Scottish Government met 61 times with SSE and Equinor between February 2022, when the planning application was submitted, and December 2023 (equivalent to more than once a fortnight) but refused to meet with objectors saying it would be inappropriate to discuss “a live planning application”.

• The Scottish Government has no records, or couldn’t locate records, of another 16 meetings with SSE and Equinor: the public only know about them because of records kept by the developers themselves.

Friends of the Earth Scotland climate campaigner Alex Lee said: “These 28 breaches of the ministerial code show a deeply troubling pattern of behaviour right across the Scottish Government. Public concerns have been deliberately ignored to try and push through a climate damaging planning application in the interests of greedy energy companies.

“Ministers and civil servants have been caught out playing fast and loose with the rules, in favour of a polluting project that risks locking households into higher energy bills for decades to come.

“Our investigations show that the Scottish Government has treated the outcome of this planning application as a foregone conclusion right from the beginning and has failed to follow the planning process and assess the evidence objectively.

“First Minister John Swinney must get his government in order and stop listening to fossil fuel companies. Once this project is assessed fairly on its merits, the huge climate pollution and impact on home energy bills will mean the only rational conclusion will be a rejection.

“Workers and communities in the North East of Scotland need a credible transition plan that can move us to good green jobs in renewables, not a dodgy project built on the rotten foundations of carbon capture and backroom lobbying.”

28,043 butterflies spotted in Scotland last summer: can we beat that in 2024?

Butterfly Conservation issues rallying cry to people of Scotland

Last summer, citizen scientists in Scotland spotted 28,043 butterflies and day-flying moths during the Big Butterfly Count. Today, wildlife conservation charity, Butterfly Conservation, is issuing a rallying cry to people in the region to help beat that this year.

In 2023, people across Scotland did 5,087 Big Butterfly Counts, with Small White taking the top spot for species sightings. Scientists are hoping even more people will take part to help find out what’s happening with the region’s butterflies before the Count ends on Sunday 4 August.

It’s more important than ever that people take part this year. After analysing 50 years of data, researchers have discovered a clear northward spread for many species, including common garden favourites the Peacock, Comma and Holly Blue, the result of climate change creating warmer habitats for them to survive in.

Butterflies are indicators of the health of our natural environment – and with half of Britain’s butterfly species already threatened or near threatened with extinction, it’s never been more important to understand how these species are responding to the changing climate and to take action to protect them.

Dr Zoë Randle, Senior Surveys Officer at Butterfly Conservation explains: ‘We really need people across Scotland to get out for the Count to help us understand the impact of climate change on our most-loved butterflies.

“We’re relying on everyone, everywhere to spend just 15 minutes outdoors and let us know what they see. With species on the move, someone in Scotland might even be the first to spot a new species in their area!”

Whether done with friends and family, or in a moment of quiet calm and solitude, Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count is free, fun and takes just 15 minutes in a sunny spot. It is open to anyone, of any age, in any part of the UK – towns, cities or the countryside. No green space is too small – a back garden, a small terrace or balcony with some pot plants, a public park, allotment or country lane are all important spaces to explore, track and report.

Last year more than 135,000 Counts took place up and down the country, with participants spending a combined four years counting butterflies in their gardens, local parks, urban community spaces, balconies, courtyards and in the countryside. The information gathered helps to inform conservation projects, government policies and supports other experts with their research and vital work to protect our planet.

This year’s Big Butterfly Count is already underway, running from Friday 12 July – Sunday 4 August.

For more information and to take part simply visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.